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Who is the Best Gen 7 Starter? A Deep Dive into Alola’s Finest

Let’s cut right to the chase: In a vacuum, and considering competitive viability, the best Gen 7 starter is undeniably Incineroar. This isn’t just my opinion; the data speaks for itself. Incineroar’s impressive attack stat, coupled with its useful Dark/Fire typing, allows for powerful STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) moves. Its Hidden Ability, Intimidate, which lowers the opponent’s Attack upon entry, is a game-changer, providing invaluable utility in both Singles and Doubles formats. While the other starters have their merits, Incineroar’s overall utility and impact on the metagame make it the top pick.

Analyzing the Alolan Trio: A Closer Look

While Incineroar stands out, let’s not dismiss Rowlet/Dartrix/Decidueye and Litten/Torracat/Incineroar without a comprehensive examination. Each starter brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the table.

Decidueye: The Phantom Archer

Typing: Grass/Ghost
Strengths: Decidueye boasts a strong Special Attack stat and access to powerful moves like Spirit Shackle, which prevents opponents from switching out. Its design is also undeniably cool, resonating with many players.
Weaknesses: Decidueye’s low Speed stat is a major drawback. It’s also vulnerable to common types like Fire, Flying, Ghost, Dark, and Ice. Its dual typing, while unique, leaves it open to numerous weaknesses, making it often difficult to use effectively.
Viability: Decidueye has struggled to find a consistent niche in competitive play. While it can be a decent offensive threat, its speed and defensive frailties often hold it back. It’s more of a niche pick for specific teams rather than a generally strong choice.

Primarina: The Siren of the Sea

Typing: Water/Fairy
Strengths: Primarina possesses exceptional Special Attack and Special Defense stats, making it a formidable special attacker and bulky wall. Its access to powerful Fairy-type moves like Moonblast and its Water-type moves like Hydro Pump provide great coverage.
Weaknesses: Primarina’s Speed, like Decidueye, leaves something to be desired. While it’s bulky, it is vulnerable to common types like Electric, Grass, and Poison.
Viability: Primarina finds a solid place as a special wall and strong special attacker, especially in formats with fewer threats that can exploit its weaknesses. It is more viable than Decidueye in the overall metagame, and benefits from powerful moves like Sparkling Aria.

Incineroar: The Heel Pokemon

Typing: Fire/Dark
Strengths: Incineroar’s high Attack stat and incredibly useful Hidden Ability, Intimidate, make it a powerful offensive and supportive force. It can deal massive damage with moves like Flare Blitz and Darkest Lariat, and Intimidate cripples physical attackers. This makes it a huge threat that can pivot in and out.
Weaknesses: Its Speed is not great. It is also 4x weak to Water-type moves, which can be very problematic.
Viability: Incineroar is widely considered one of the best competitive Pokémon from Gen 7. Intimidate provides invaluable support in Doubles formats, and its offensive prowess makes it a threat in Singles. It has consistently been a top pick in VGC (Video Game Championships) and other competitive formats.

Why Incineroar Reigns Supreme: A Detailed Explanation

Several factors contribute to Incineroar’s superiority:

Intimidate: This ability is the core of Incineroar’s success. Lowering an opponent’s Attack stat upon entry provides immediate tactical advantage, weakening physical attackers and forcing switches.
Typing: Dark/Fire is a strong offensive typing, granting access to powerful STAB moves that hit a wide range of threats effectively.
Movepool: Incineroar boasts a diverse movepool, including key utility moves like Fake Out, Parting Shot, and U-Turn, in addition to its powerful offensive options.
Versatility: Incineroar can be built in various ways, from offensive powerhouses to supportive pivots, adapting to different team compositions.
Metagame Dominance: Its consistent presence at the top of competitive rankings is a testament to its effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are design preferences a valid factor in choosing a starter?

Absolutely! While competitive viability is important, choosing a Pokémon based on personal preference is perfectly valid, especially for casual gameplay. If you love Decidueye’s design, use it!

2. Can Decidueye be successful in competitive play?

Yes, but it requires careful team building and strategy. Utilizing supportive Pokémon that can patch up Decidueye’s speed issues with moves like Tailwind is necessary to make it shine.

3. What are some good movesets for Incineroar?

A common Incineroar moveset includes Flare Blitz, Darkest Lariat, U-Turn/Parting Shot, and Fake Out. Adjustments can be made based on team needs.

4. Is Primarina a good choice for a beginner player?

Yes. Primarina’s high Special Attack and Special Defense, combined with its access to powerful moves, make it relatively easy to use for new players.

5. How does Incineroar’s typing affect its performance?

The Dark/Fire typing provides strong offensive coverage, but it leaves Incineroar vulnerable to Water, Ground, Fighting, and Rock-type attacks.

6. What’s the best nature for Incineroar?

Adamant (Attack Up, Special Attack Down) is a common choice to maximize its physical attack, but Careful (Special Defense Up, Special Attack Down) is also viable for increased bulk.

7. Are there any specific items that work well with Incineroar?

Sitrus Berry provides immediate healing, while Assault Vest boosts its Special Defense. Choice Band can also be used for an offensive boost, though it limits move selection.

8. How does Intimidate work in Doubles battles?

Intimidate activates when Incineroar enters the field, lowering the Attack of both opposing Pokémon, making it exceptionally useful.

9. What are some good teammates for Incineroar?

Pokémon that can handle Water, Ground, Fighting, and Rock-type threats, such as Tapu Koko or Ferrothorn, synergize well with Incineroar.

10. Is Decidueye’s Spirit Shackle a useful move?

Spirit Shackle’s ability to trap opponents can be strategically useful, but its low base power limits its offensive potential.

11. How does Primarina compare to other Water-type starters?

Primarina excels in Special Attack and Special Defense, setting it apart from more physically oriented Water-type starters. It’s more of a special wall and cleaner.

12. What are some strategies to counter Incineroar?

Using Pokémon with high Special Attack, such as Tapu Koko, or Pokémon with abilities like Defiant (which raises Attack when a stat is lowered) are effective counters.

13. How has Incineroar’s popularity affected the competitive metagame?

Incineroar’s prevalence has led to players developing strategies specifically to counter it, shaping the metagame significantly.

14. Are Mega Evolutions a factor when considering Gen 7 starters?

Since Mega Evolutions aren’t present in every game or format, they’re typically not a primary factor in evaluating the base starters themselves, in games where Mega Evolution is available, the discussion may differ.

15. Where can I learn more about Pokémon strategy and competitive play?

There are many resources available online, including Smogon University, Trainer Tower, and forums dedicated to competitive Pokémon. You can also learn more about game-based learning through resources like the Games Learning Society, found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Understanding game mechanics and competitive strategies can be applied in educational settings and enhance cognitive skills.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely, and Have Fun!

While Incineroar’s competitive dominance is clear, ultimately, the “best” Gen 7 starter depends on your personal preferences and play style. Each starter offers unique strengths and weaknesses, and with the right team and strategy, any of them can be successful. So, choose the one you enjoy the most and embark on your Alolan adventure!

Who is the best Gen 7 starter?